Regional strategies for a bio-based bioeconomy

March 20, 2025

It is now time to present the results of many months of work on developing regional strategies for a bio-based economy, which we call blueprints. 

Through close collaboration with local and regional stakeholders, researchers, and decision-makers, we have created concrete action plans that pave the way for a more sustainable and circular economy in six pilot regions across Europe. We have created real plans to help this happen in six areas of Europe; Delta Region (Netherlands), Nitra Region (Slovakia), Normandy Region (France), Northern Sweden (Sweden), Tuscany Region (Italy), and Western Macedonia Region (Greece). 

These blueprints serve as strategic tools, connecting the economic, social, and environmental opportunities of each region with innovation and sustainable development. Based on local conditions – from forestry and agriculture to marine resources and waste management – we have developed solutions that strengthen bio-based value chains and promote innovative governance models. We look forward to seeing the diverse approaches we have developed inspire many regions across Europe.  

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Delta Region – Netherlands  
  • The blueprint focuses on common regional challenges, solutions, and lessons learned. It identifies key priorities and shares existing solutions for developing the bio-based economy. 
  • It also highlights collaboration opportunities between the Netherlands and Belgium.  
  • Ultimately, it serves as a guide for building a bio-based economy in the Delta Region by turning stakeholder needs and goals into a clear vision, strategic objectives, and practical next steps for the provinces in this area. 

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Nitra Region – Slovakia  
  • Collaboration among stakeholders, including local municipalities, the Bioeconomy Cluster, and the Association of Municipalities for Waste Management in Nitra, is essential to successfully implement strategy focus on transforming waste management in the region. 
  • The blueprint emphasizes community engagement and educational initiatives to foster responsible waste practices and stimulate local participation. 

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Normandy Region – France 
  • The document scope is to set out how bioeconomy strategy in Normandy has been defined and what the foundations of this strategy are.  
  • The stakeholders evaluated the strategy after 18 months of development months a co-creation workshop. The results of the discussions identify the barriers and opportunities for this bioeconomy strategy in Normandy, as well as the priorities that could be added to the strategy in its next scheduling. 

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Northern Sweden  
  • The blueprint provides a common vision for northern Sweden, also in line with the proposed national bioeconomy vision and objectives as well as other national strategies that include bioeconomy.  
  • The document can be used as a foundation for the four northern politically steered regions in their work to revise and update strategies and policies pertinent to the bioeconomy sector.  
  • The scope of this Blueprint focuses on the forestry bioeconomy. 

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Tuscany Region – Italy 
  • Strengthening partnerships among stakeholders through formal networks is essential. 
  • Investments in research and innovation are necessary to develop new technologies in bio-based industries.  
  • Public awareness campaigns should be launched to highlight the benefits of the bioeconomy, while educational programs must align with the evolving needs of industries. 

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Western Macedonia Region – Greece  
  • One of the fundamental functions of the Blueprint is to advocate for sustainable resource management. 
  • Economic diversification and innovation are central themes of the Blueprint. It aims to reduce the region’s reliance on traditional sectors by fostering the development of bio-based industries.   
  • Stakeholder engagement is another key function of the Blueprint. Effective governance in the bioeconomy transition requires the active participation of various stakeholders, including local communities, businesses, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations. 

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